Dr. Jennifer Bouldin, interim dean, Sciences and Mathematics, and professor of environmental biology, is principal investigator (PI) for a project funded by the state Agriculture Department’s Natural Resources Division. Orithea Regn, research associate, Ecotoxicology Research Facility, is co-PI. The department is implementing nutrient reduction-related projects that support the Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia Task Force’s program. They will analyze water quality data from drainage ditches designed to reduce nutrient loss. Details are online.

Allen Hays, director, Delta STEM Education Center, and instructor in teacher education, has been presented with an educator recognition award from the Arkansas for Gifted and Talented Education (AGATE) organization. His contributions include collaboration with educational cooperatives and educators, student outreach, and providing professional development linked to the integration of STEAM into the gifted classroom. He received the award at the 2023 AGATE conference in Little Rock.

An article by Dr. Averi Fegadel, assistant professor of criminology, has been published in Critical Criminology. Based on her dissertation, this study explores the social, economic and environmental injustices experienced by Native Americans. In particular, this research confronts historic and current struggles endured by Native Americans in their resistance to ecocide, genocide and capitalism by focusing on uranium mining in the Southwestern United States.

Claire Abernathy (left) and Jeff McLaughlin (right), associate professors of theatre, served as designers for The Link Theatre Company's production of The Sound of Music. Abernathy designed costumes, while McLaughlin designed scenery and properties; they collaborated on the lighting design. The Link Theatre Company aims to create compelling musicals, plays, concerts and other cultural experiences through innovative design and imaginative storytelling.

A book chapter by Dr. Tanja McKay, professor of entomology and interim associate chair, Biological Sciences, and program alumna Dr. Sofia Todorovic has been included in the textbook titled “Human and Animal Filariases,” published by Wiley-VCH. Their chapter, titled “Vector Control Approaches for Canine Filariasis,” describes integrated mosquito management strategies for mosquito control districts, veterinarians and pet owners in order to reduce risks for canine heartworm.